International Licensing Examination (ILE) Practice Test

What condition is characterized by poorer binaural word recognition compared to monaural recognition?

1. Binaural interference/degradation

2. Auditory deprivation

3. Dipalcusis

4. Head shadow effect

The correct answer is: Binaural interference/degradation

Binaural interference or degradation occurs when the ability to recognize words in a binaural setting (using both ears) is less effective than in a monaural setting (using one ear). This condition can arise from different factors, such as uneven hearing loss between the ears, which can lead to confusion or mixed input when sounds reach both ears simultaneously. In contrast, auditory deprivation generally describes a scenario where one ear may not receive sufficient auditory stimulation, leading to an inability to process sound effectively, but does not specifically compare binaural and monaural recognition levels. Dipalcusis refers to a phenomenon where sounds are perceived differently in each ear, but it does not inherently indicate poorer word recognition binaurally compared to monaurally. The head shadow effect, while it can affect sound perception by causing a reduction in sound intensity for one ear due to obstruction by the head, primarily relates to differences in sound levels and doesn't inherently lead to poorer binaural word recognition. In summary, binaural interference is the condition specifically marked by a disparity in word recognition abilities between listening with both ears versus one, making it the most accurate choice given the scenario described.